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Dash diet plan for elderly

The DASH diet for the elderly emphasizes low-sodium foods and plentiful fruits and vegetables to combat high blood pressure and ensure a nutrient-rich diet. It's tailored to be easy on digestion and supportive of heart health, which is crucial for aging bodies.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Spinach
  • Carrots
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Apples
  • Bananas
  • Blueberries
  • Low-fat yogurt
  • Skim milk
  • Oatmeal
  • Whole wheat bread
  • Brown rice

  • Quinoa
  • Lean chicken breast
  • Turkey
  • Salmon
  • Tuna
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Kidney beans
  • Lentils
  • Chickpeas
  • Olive oil

  • Avocado
  • Tomatoes
  • Cucumbers
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflower
  • Garlic
  • Onions
  • Bell peppers
  • Flaxseeds
  • Chia seeds
  • Low-sodium cottage cheese

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on April 29, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The Dash diet plan for elderly addresses the unique dietary needs of older adults, focusing on nutrient-dense foods to combat common age-related issues like muscle loss and bone density reduction. It emphasizes calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which are crucial for maintaining bone health and muscle function.

This diet plan is easy on digestion and includes foods that are both high in fiber and low in sodium, supporting cardiovascular health and overall digestive well-being, making it suitable for the dietary needs of the elderly population.

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Foods to eat

  • High-Fiber Foods: Beans, whole grains, and vegetables to maintain digestive health.
  • Lean Proteins: Skinless poultry, fish, and eggs for muscle maintenance and repair.
  • Calcium-Rich Foods: Dairy products and fortified plant milks to support bone health.
  • Soft Vegetables and Fruits: Steamed carrots, mashed potatoes, applesauce for easier chewing and digestion.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocado, olive oil, and nuts to support overall calorie needs and nutrient absorption.
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Flaxseed will keep that bowel on the move.

Bernard Jensen, D.C., PhD

Foods not to eat

  • Hard to Chew Foods: Raw vegetables, tough meats which can be difficult to chew and digest.
  • High-Salt Foods: Salted snacks, ready meals which can increase blood pressure.
  • High-Sugar Foods: Pastries, sugary cereals which can contribute to weight gain and unstable blood sugar levels.
  • Heavy Creams and Sauces: These can be high in saturated fats and difficult to digest.
  • Alcohol: Can interact negatively with medications and can be dehydrating.

Main benefits

The dash diet plan for elderly focuses on nutrients essential for bone health and cognitive function, like calcium and B vitamins. It's designed to be heart-friendly and easy on digestion, important for older adults. The diet's low-salt approach helps manage blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

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📊 Recommended food breakdown (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Elderly individuals can manage their DASH diet by preparing meals that are soft and easy to eat, such as mashed potatoes and stewed vegetables, which are also cost-effective. They should prioritize hydration with fluids like low-sodium broths and herbal teas, which are inexpensive supplements to their diet. Coupons and senior discounts can be particularly useful for purchasing staple items like lean meats and whole grains.

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7-Day Meal Plan for DASH Diet Plan for Elderly

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with chopped apples, walnuts, and a sprinkle of chia seeds
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with a side of steamed broccoli and carrots
  • Snack: Low-fat yogurt with blueberries and flaxseeds

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Whole wheat bread with mashed avocado and sliced tomatoes
  • Lunch: Brown rice with lean chicken breast and mixed bell peppers
  • Dinner: Lentil soup with spinach, garlic, and onions
  • Snack: A banana with a handful of almonds

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with banana, skim milk, and a spoonful of flaxseeds
  • Lunch: Turkey and spinach wrap using whole wheat bread, and a side of carrot sticks
  • Dinner: Baked sweet potatoes with olive oil and a side of sautéed kale and garlic
  • Snack: Low-sodium cottage cheese with sliced peaches

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Low-fat yogurt with sliced strawberries and a sprinkle of chia seeds
  • Lunch: Chickpea salad with diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions with a lemon olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Grilled turkey breast with steamed asparagus and quinoa
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries, walnuts, and skim milk
  • Lunch: Brown rice with steamed cauliflower, broccoli, and a drizzle of olive oil
  • Dinner: Pan-seared tuna with a side salad of spinach, avocado, and tomatoes
  • Snack: A handful of mixed nuts (almonds and walnuts)

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries), low-fat yogurt, and a spoonful of chia seeds
  • Lunch: Lentil and spinach soup with a side of whole wheat bread
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, onions)
  • Snack: Sliced cucumber with hummus

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Whole wheat toast with low-sodium cottage cheese and sliced bananas
  • Lunch: Quinoa and roasted vegetable salad with broccoli, sweet potato, and olive oil
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with a side of garlic mashed cauliflower
  • Snack: Low-fat yogurt with sliced almonds and honey

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.